Description
Shrimp and Mirliton Casserole is a beloved New Orleans holiday dish that combines tender chayote squash (mirlitons), juicy shrimp, seasoned ground meat, and classic Cajun spices. This comforting, savory casserole is full of Southern flavor and perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering. A true Louisiana classic that brings tradition and taste to the table!
Ingredients
2½ lbs mirlitons (4–5 medium)
1 lb shrimp (51/60 size, bite-sized)
1 tsp liquid crab boil
1 lb seasoned ground meat (beef or chicken)
1 yellow onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp vinegar-based hot sauce
Cajun seasoning, to taste
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups French bread, cubed (stale or oven-dried)
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
-
Prepare Mirlitons:
Boil whole mirlitons for 45–60 minutes until fork-tender. Cool, peel, remove seeds and tough core, and chop. -
Cook Shrimp:
Soak shrimp briefly in water seasoned with crab boil. Sauté in butter until just pink. Remove from heat. -
Cook Meat and Vegetables:
Brown the ground meat in a large skillet. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft and fragrant. -
Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix chopped mirlitons, cooked shrimp, meat and veggie mixture, bread cubes, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper until combined. -
Assemble Casserole:
Spread mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan. -
Bake:
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
Notes
Add Crab Meat: Fold in ½–1 cup lump crab for a seafood-packed version.
Vegetarian Version: Omit meat and shrimp and add mushrooms or other veggies.
Creole Kick: Add Creole seasoning or diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish, Casserole
- Method: Baking, Boiling, Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern, Creole
